EU to require that EVs and hybrids make noise to alert pedestrians

The EU has been talking for years about requiring pedestrian alert noises on electric cars and hybrids, and some vehicles already do. In the future, however, those warning systems will be mandatory. The European Parliament has backed a proposal that would require sound-making hardware in new electric vehicles by July 2019. The European Commission would lock down the final rules by July 2017. Whether or not you're a fan of the potential regulation, gas-powered vehicles aren't being let off the hook. Parliament also wants to start lowering conventional engine noise levels as soon as July 2016, so every Europe-friendly automaker will have to be mindful of audio before too long.